How the politics of peace can triumph in Syria

SIR – Local communities and civil society groups need to be recognised for the vital role they play in rebuilding society and preventing further conflict in Syria (“Raqqa is a victory, but not the end of Islamic terror”, Comment, October 18).

Following the occupation by forces of Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, people are deeply traumatised and society is riven with suspicions. Peacebuilding efforts led by local people – and supported through international funding – are the only way to ensure that peace will have a chance of succeeding.

Yet without addressing the political situation at its core, the conflict will rumble on and millions of families will continue to face a daily struggle to survive. Anne Street

Head of Humanitarian Policy, Cafod London SE1